Question

what questions are being asked in "What is Utilitarianism by John Stuart Mill

Answer 1

The questions asked by the J S Mill in the Utilitarianism are:

1.How does Mill define the greatest happiness principle? How does he respond to the charge that this principle is degrading to the dignity of persons?
2. How are qualities of pleasure distinguished from quantities of pleasure?What does Mill think establishes one quality of pleasure more valuable than another?
3. Construct Mill’s argument concerning the sense of dignity preventing some persons from pursuing sensual pleasure? Explain why this argument is not inconsistent with the greatest happiness principle.
4. If all persons naturally seek the benefit of their higher faculties, then how doesMill account for the common occurrence of young persons losing their fresh enthusiasm, their rich enjoyment, and noble character later in life? How would he account for persons who have no interest in their higher faculties?
5. What is Mill’s answer to the objection by some that happiness is a hindrance to the good life—that self-sacrifice and renunciation of pleasure is essential for virtue? Under what conditions does he think renunciation can lead to the best possible life? Explain whether or not Mill is an ethical egoist or a psychological egoist?
6. Mill points out that “all desirable things are desirable either for the pleasure inherent in themselves, or as means to the promotion of pleasure and the prevention of pain.” Explain whether this doctrine implies a virtuous action is not desirable if it results in less pleasure than other nonvirtuous actions available to the agent.
7. What does Mill mean by “the disinterested character” of utilitarianism?How is this disinterest related to the golden rule?
8. How does Mill answer the criticism that under utilitarianism, the motive or intention of an agent, indeed, even the good heart of the agent, is irrelevant to the ethical value of an action performed.
9. According to Mill, how can the claim be proved that the only thing desirable as an end or a purpose to life is happiness? Explain whether or not Mill thinks virtue can also be rightfully desirable in itself? Can pleasureand virtue be distinguished for Mill? Are there any virtues which are not pleasurable? 10. Does Mill believe valued means such as health, virtue, money, power,sex, and fame should not be sought for themselves? Are these desires different in kind or different in degree from the desire for happiness?

Utilitarianism is the creed which accepts as the foundation of morals, Utility, or the Greatest Happiness Principle, holds that actions are right in proportion as they tend to promote happiness, wrong as they tend to produce the reverse of happiness.By happiness is intended pleasure, and the absence of pain; by unhappiness,pain, and the privation of pleasure.